Caritas India’s Sajeevam Anti-Drug Campaign has emerged as a powerful force in Kerala’s fight against drug abuse, particularly among its youth. The campaign, launched in December 2022, aims to create awareness, strengthen community resilience, and restore the physical, mental, economic, and social functioning of families affected by drug abuse. Leveraging its extensive network, Caritas India has reached approximately 22 lakh people across Kerala through the dedicated efforts of 32 Diocesan Social Service Societies (DSSS) partners.

A standout initiative within the Sajeevam campaign was the elocution competition, specifically tailored for parents. This innovative approach recognized the critical role of families in preventing drug abuse and aimed to equip parents with the knowledge and tools needed to identify early warning signs of substance abuse and understand areas requiring greater vigilance.

The elocution competition, organized by PSWS, Palai on December 15, 2024, served as a key activity within the Sajeevam initiative. The event was inaugurated by Fr. Dr. George Varghese Njarakkunnel, Director of the Catechism Department of the Palai Diocese, who delivered a compelling address highlighting the widespread impact of substance abuse. “Though drugs and alcohol are consumed by men, their negative consequences are most acutely felt by women and children. It is our responsibility to eliminate this evil from our homes,” he emphasized, underscoring the collective duty to safeguard families.

The competition witnessed enthusiastic participation, with nearly 50 contestants delivering speeches that showcased their preparation and dedication. Each participant had 5 to 8 minutes to present their ideas, with the competition’s rules and criteria clearly communicated in advance to ensure a fair and structured event. Esteemed teachers from neighboring schools served as judges, adding credibility and rigor to the evaluation process.

The impact of the elocution competition extended beyond the participants themselves, creating a ripple effect within families and the community. This was beautifully captured in the words of Abel Thomas, a 7th-grade student who accompanied his mother to the event. He shared, “I was there with my mother while she was preparing and practicing her speech. I learned about some good practices that children like me should adopt and make a part of our lives. It’s also a way to show our love and respect for our parents”.

Participants found the competition to be a transformative experience. Ms. Rosamma George, one of the participants, shared, “Participating in this competition prompted me to do extensive research, which gave me greater awareness about the issue and helped me realize the critical role of a mother in raising children amidst these dangers”.
The elocution competition proved to be a resounding success, not only in raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse but also in fostering meaningful conversations within families and the community. It served as a powerful platform for parents to reflect on their roles in building drug-resilient households and inspired participants to become advocates for a healthier society.

As Caritas India continues its mission through the Sajeevam program, the elocution competition stands as a testament to the power of innovative, targeted initiatives in addressing critical social issues. By sensitizing parents and fostering intergenerational dialogue, Caritas India is paving the way for a drug-free society in Kerala, one family at a time.